7M - Vinicius shines as Real Madrid advance past Benfica

Real Madrid secured a place in the Champions League round of 16 by beating Benfica 3-1 on aggregate after a 2-1 victory in the second leg at the Bernabeu. The tie was level at 1-1 on the night until Vinicius Junior again starred for Madrid, contributing the crucial moments that saw the Spanish giants overturn the deficit from the first leg in Lisbon, where Real had taken a 1-0 lead.

Mbappe missed the match for Madrid due to a recurring left knee ligament injury, forcing coach Álvaro Arbeloa to reshuffle the attack. The first leg in Lisbon had been marred by racial abuse allegations involving Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni, which intensified the second-leg atmosphere and Real Madrid's resolve.

Madrid's lineup featured a retooled front line with Vinicius Junior delivering the standout performance, supported by a compact midfield and a resilient defence anchored by Thibaut Courtois. Benfica pressed for goals to force extra time, but Real Madrid held firm and sealed progression as the full-time whistle approached.

Madrid now eye potential last-16 opponents as the draw approaches, with possibilities including European heavyweights. Real Madrid's historic European pedigree remains intact as they move closer to defending their title.